Restanchor Foundation Hosts 13th Annual Educational Support Program In Ibadan, Empowers 620 Orphans, Vulnerable Children
•By Oyeniyi Awojoodu, Ibadan
IBADAN – The Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation, under the leadership of its founder, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, celebrated the 13th Annual Educational Support Program, held at the Kristas Resources Centre in Ibadan.
The event welcomed orphans and vulnerable children from different schools in Oyo State who received educational materials, food, and clothing as part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to their well-being.
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In his welcome address, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, founder of the Restanchor Foundation, highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable children, offering not only educational resources but also emotional and psychological care.
He highlighted this year’s theme, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression for Greatness is Attainable for the vulnerable,” underscoring the urgency of equipping children with resilience in the face of adversity.“Greatness is attainable for every child, no matter the challenges they face,” he said.
He further emphasized the foundation’s mission to provide comprehensive care for the most vulnerable. “We are deeply committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive, no matter the challenges they face,” Adefioye stated.
Founded in 2006, Restanchor Foundation now supports over 3,000 vulnerable children with a focus on education, emotional care, and nutritional support.
Pastor Adefioye praised the ongoing support from sponsors, including Her Excellency Mrs. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, who donated over a million naira worth of foodstuffs, and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), which regularly sponsors the payment of exam fees for WAEC and NECO.
The event was graced by prominent figures, including, Oyo State’s Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, who was represented by the Zonal Director Of Ibadan Zone 2 Education Office, WEMA Bank Area, Gbagi, Ibadan, Mrs Karunwi Maria Olufunke lauded the foundation’s impact.
Adelabu emphasized that the state government takes the education and well-being of vulnerable children seriously, but also noted that philanthropic efforts, like those of Restanchor, are crucial to ensuring equitable education for all.He said, “I want to appreciate the Management and members of staff of this Foundation for making this day a reality where the less privileged and vulnerable people in our society are being celebrated, supported and made hopeful of living a meaningful life.
“Without mincing words, what you are doing is great in the sight of the Lord and worth being highly appreciated because millions of young souls across the globe are withering and wailing in despair, finding no solace, no comfort, and no guardians to oversee them. Countless underprivileged orphans, abandoned and exploited, lead a life of solitude and helplessness with no one to guide them. Many of these orphans and vulnerable children are deprived of love, affection, and basic resources for survival. Once again, I appreciate the Visioner of this Foundation for the vision of providing a “better tomorrow” for these vulnerable ones. May the Almighty God reward you all.
“I am pleased to inform this gathering at this auspicious occasion that the present administration in the State, under the leadership of His Excellence, Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, takes the affair of orphans, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable people with all the seriousness it deserves.
“Support and education of vulnerable children as well as those with disabilities has always been accorded a place of pride by the State Government in terms of provision of teaching materials, manpower and financial support for special schools and homes in the State.
“Oyo State is doing all these so that there can be equal educational opportunities to all her children without any bias or discrimination on the basis of their family background. Free and quality education is a right of every child.
“However, demands in the education sector are so overhauling and capital intensive to the extent that no government can do it alone.Collaborative support from philanthropists and non-profit oriented NGOs like yours are welcome, if we are to record meaningful development in the sector. We therefore urge other individuals and NGO to borrow a leaf from this and partner with the State Government in raising education in Oyo State to an enviable standard. Adelabu stated.
Similarly, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, praised the foundation’s work, emphasizing the importance of eliminating violence and depression in children’s lives. “It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness,” she stated.
She further expressed her joy at witnessing the program’s success, reminding the children of their potential. “No matter the difficulties you face, there is greatness within you,” she told the beneficiaries.
Mrs Toyin Balogun, who was ably represented by Mr Gbemileke Ojerinde Director Child Welfare at the Ministry commended Restanchor Foundation for their commitments towards the welfare of the vulnerable individuals in the society.She said, “I stand before you today with a heart full of joy and gratitude as we gather to celebrate the 13th Annual Educational Support Program for 620 orphans and vulnerable children. It is a great honor to be part of this noble initiative organized by RESTANCHOR Total Child Parenting Foundation, whose tireless efforts have uplifted the lives of countless children over the years.
“The theme of this year’s event, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression, for Greatness is Achievable for the Vulnerable,” speaks volumes about the challenges faced by these young ones and the collective responsibility we all share in ensuring that they are nurtured, protected, and given every opportunity to flourish.We must recognize that violence and depression are barriers that impede the full potential of vulnerable children. It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness. Violence in all its forms must be eradicated, whether it is physical, emotional, or psychological, for children to grow in an environment where love and care thrive.
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“To the 620 orphans and vulnerable children we celebrate today, I want to remind you that you are not alone. You are important, and your dreams matter. No matter the difficulties you may face, know that there is greatness within you. Through education, guidance, and the right support, you can overcome every obstacle and reach your full potential.
“I must also commend RESTANCHOR Total Child Parenting Foundation for their unwavering dedication to this cause. The provision of educational support for these children is not just a service; it is a seed being planted in fertile soil, and one day, we will see the fruits of greatness in these children.I assure you that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion stands firmly behind initiatives like this. We remain committed to working with stakeholders to develop policies, create awareness, and implement programs that promote the well-being of vulnerable children and women across our state.
“As we move forward, let us all continue to shine light on the paths of these young ones, removing every shadow of violence and depression. Together, we can create a society where every child, no matter their circumstances, can grow, succeed, and achieve greatness.” Toyin stressed.
The event concluded with the distribution of essential items to the children leaving a profound impact on the children and reinforcing the foundation’s mission to create a brighter future for all vulnerable children in Oyo State.